107 things to do in Vancouver this October

October has arrived and it is packed with fun events in Vancouver. From Thanksgiving to Halloween, Vancouver Writers Fest and Vancouver Canucks, here are 107 things to check out around the city this month!

For more things happening around town check out our events section.

Happy Thanksgiving

Arc’teryx Thanksgiving Convention Centre Sale

• What: The Arc’teryx Thanksgiving Convention Centre Sale has returned to bring you the very best outerwear for the very best prices. The sale will feature an awesome collection of samples and discontinued merchandise from every Arc’teryx collection. And don’t sweat the crowds; there will be plenty of cash registers and helpful wait staff on hand to make sure your sporty shopping spree goes as smoothly as possible. As with all big sales, the most stock will be available on the first day, so if you need something to fill a hole in your wardrobe, show up then. On the other hand, additional discounts will be applied on Sunday and Monday, so there’s a benefit to taking your time as well.
• When: Friday, October 5 to Monday, October 8, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Convention Centre East Building, Exhibition Hall B – 999 Canada Place, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Fort Langley Cranberry Festival

• What: The day-long event includes food, kids activities, entertainment, contests, over 70 vendors, and, of course, fresh cranberries. And while the festival officially starts at 10 am, early-risers can enjoy a pancake breakfast at 8 am.
• When: Saturday, October 6, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 4 pm
• Where: 9167 Glover Rd – Fort Langley
• Admission: Free

Granville Island Turkey Trot

• What: The Granville Island Turkey Trot is a hallmark event for Granville Island and the local Vancouver running community. The Trot occurs annually over Thanksgiving weekend, with Sunday featuring a Kids Run and Expo, and Monday a seawall 10KM race followed by food, prizes, music and awards.
• When: Sunday, October 7 and Monday, October 8, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Granville Island
• Register: Online

Turkey Toonie Skate

• What: Enjoy family-friendly activities and ice skating on Thanksgiving Monday.
• When: Monday, October 8, 2018
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Kensington Recreation Complex – 6159 Curtis Street, Burnaby
• Admission: $2, skates and helmet included in admission fee.

Thanksgiving Dinner

• What: The leaves are beginning to fall, the air is becoming crisper, and we’re starting to get hungry because we know what’s coming – Thanksgiving dinner. While we love eating all of these things, we sure as hell aren’t going to buy the groceries to prepare and make them, and don’t even get us started about the clean-up and dishes from such a lavish meal. This year we’ve decided to leave the cooking to the pros. If you have too, then here’s a handy list of Vancouver restaurants serving Thanksgiving dinner.
• When: Various dates
• Time: Various times
• Where: Various locations
• Prices: Various

Celebrate Halloween

Maan Farms Haunted Corn Maze

• What: This corn maze is filled with the dead, creepy, corrupt clowns, creatures of the underworld, scenes of violence and carnage – and real chainsaws. Visitors will walk through five acres of pure terror and this year, Maan Farms have “taken fear to new heights,” with a built-in slide, bridges, and shocking scares from above.
• When: Select nights throughout September and October. Maze is open until November 3.
• Time: 7 to 10 pm
• Where: 790 McKenzie Road — Abbotsford, BC
• Tickets: Online. Early bird tickets: $20. Regular online tickets: $25. Tickets at the door $30

Vancouver Halloween Expo and Parade

• What: The fifth annual Vancouver Halloween Parade and Expo is a festival inspired by comics, anime, video games and mythologies from various cultures. Attracting more than 100,000 spectators, the parade turns downtown Vancouver into the world’s largest cosplay stage with floats, marching bands and special effects.
• When: Friday, October 5 to Sunday, October 7, 2018
• Time: Various times. Parade starts at 11 am on Sunday
• Where: UBC Robson Square and Art Gallery North Plaza. Parade starts at Howe and Drake and ends at Granville and Drake
• Tickets: Online. Parade is free to watch

Stanley Park Ghost Train

• What: This year’s theme is ‘Jack O’Lanter’s Journey Through the Dark Forest,’ so get ready to be spirited away into an ancient Celtic Halloween world where spirits wander and nothing is what it seems. Guests will join Jack on his journey through Stanley Park, where they can expect a visit from a 12-foot monster and creatures barely human. Meanwhile, the kids can enjoy a less scary daytime train ride through the forest to see Stanley Park’s Halloween displays, without live performers.
• When: Thursday, October 11 to Wednesday, October 31, 2018
• Time: Live theatrical performance trains run Monday to Thursday: 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, Friday to Sunday: 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm. Kids’ matinee trains run Friday to Sunday, 11 am to 5 pm.
• Where: Stanley Park, Vancouver
• Tickets: On TicketLeader, $6-$12 depending on age and train

Fright Nights at Playland

• What: Fright Nights are returning to Playland this October, bringing hauntings, horror, and hair-raising rides to Vancouver for another year.
• When: Select dates in October from Friday, October 5 until Halloween
• Time: 7 pm to midnight or 1 am depending on the day
• Where: Playland at the PNE – 2901 East Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online or at the gate

Goosebumps: An Evening with RL Stine

• What: RL Stine will be at Queen Elizabeth Theatre for a night of spooky stories and bone-chilling tales. The author will be doing a book signing and a Halloween party will also take place, so be sure to wear your best costumes. Stine, who has often been referred to the “Stephen King” of children’s books, has penned hundreds of spooky novels. As of 2008, Stine’s books sold over 400 million copies.
• When: Friday, October 26, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre — 630 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Available on Ticketmaster $20 to 62

Cirque Noir gets Freaky 2018

• What: Celebrate Halloween with DJs, live cirque performers, freaky decor and treats, and more on two floors of spooky fun.
• When: Friday, October 26, 2018
• Time: 9 pm to 2 am
• Where: Imperial – 319 Main St., Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $40-$60

Halloween Party

• What: Dress up in a costume for this slightly spooky-themed party with games, crafts and snacks for children. Parent participation is required. This event is for preschool (Ages 5 and under)
• When: Friday, October 26, 2018
• Time: 12 to 2 pm
• Where: Thompson Community Centre – 5151 Granville Ave, Richmond
• Admission: $10 per child. Register online or by calling Thompson Community Centre at 604-238-8422. Course number 2536692.

Haunted Village

• What: Explore the Village in the dark of night. Come wonder at the curious, find the unusual and discover the unexpected. Visitors are encouraged to wear their costumes and dancing shoes. Everyone is invited to join the Hill Street Bash. It’ll be a spooktacular time.
• When: Friday, October 26 to Monday, October 29, 2018.
• When: 6 to 9 pm
• Where: Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel – 6501 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby, BC
• Admission:$14 adults, youth and seniors, $9 for children 2 to 12 years. Members Free

Halloween Howler

• What: Free, spooky Halloween fun at Cameron Complex. Enjoy crafts, movement circuit, games, face painting, photos in the photo booth, and more. Suitable for those 9 years and under; children must be accompanied by an adult. Food bank donations welcomed.
• When: Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 1 pm
• Where: Cameron Recreation Complex – 9523 Cameron Street, Burnaby
• Admission: Free

The Haunted Sea: Halloween at the Cannery

• What: Dive to the darkest depths of “The Haunted Sea” at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site to explore what lurks in the mysterious fathoms below. Watery ghosts, sea monsters, and twisted tentacles coil and collide alongside historic legends and sea lore. Entertain your imagination with games, crafts, activities and a journey into the deep with real-life horrors that will leave you gasping for air. Suitable for all ages.
  
• When: Saturday, October 27 and Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 11 am to 4 pm
• Where: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site – 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond
• Admission: Adults $11, Youth (6-17) $7, Seniors (65+) $9

Boo-seum

• What: Design your own take-home Jack O’ Lantern, go on a spooktacular scavenger hunt in the exhibit galleries, guess the ghoul and guts and compete for best costume and strut your stuff in our parade.
• When: Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 1 to 3 pm
• Where: Museum of Surrey – 17710 56a Ave, Surrey
• Admission: Free

Night for All Souls

• What: Curated by artists Paula Jardine and Marina Szijarto, this unique cultural event offers the public an opportunity to remember their dead, whether interred at Mountain View Cemetery or not, in a gentle atmosphere of contemplative beauty.
• When: Saturday, October 27 to Thursday, November 1, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Mountain View Cemetery- 5455 Fraser St., Vancouver
• Admission: All events are free. Donations are welcome.

The Great Pumpkin

• What: Enjoy games, candy and prizes at CG Brown Pool. Children 7 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water.
• When: Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 12 to 1:30 pm
• Where: CG Brown Memorial Pool – 3702 Kensington Avenue, Burnaby
• Admission: Loonie swim rates apply.

Halloween on the Heights

• What: Families are invited to dress up and go trick or treating down Hastings Street. Kids and their adults will be able to get yummy treats from neighbourhood stores and ride the Halloween Trains in the Dark.
• When: Tuesday, October 31, 2018
  • Trick or Treating from 3:30 to 5:30 pm
  • Halloween Trains in the Dark from 6 to 9 pm
• Where: 
  • Trick or Treating is along Hastings Street in Burnaby
  • Halloween Trains in the Dark at Burnaby Central Railway at Confederation Park – 120 North Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby
• Tickets: All events are free, except the Halloween Trains in the Dark, which costs $3.50 and includes free hot chocolate and cookies. Costumes strongly encouraged.

Trick-or-Treating in Steveston Village

• What: Bring your costumed little ones out for safe and fun trick-or-treating in Steveston Village while it is still light. Participating merchants will hand out candy (map will be available at the Visitor Centre). Neighbourhood kids are invited to bring their treat bag and have some non-scary fun. This event takes place rain or shine. Hosted by Steveston Merchants Association.
  
• When: Wednesday, October 31, 2018
• Time: 3 to 5 pm
• Where: Steveston Village
• Admission: Free

Explore the great outdoors

Wonderful Wetlands Tour

• What: Enjoy a guided walk through West Creek Wetlands, an ecological reserve normally off limits to the public and home to an incredible variety of plants and wildlife. Ages 14+
• When: Saturday, October 6, 2018
  
• Time: 9:30 am to 12 pm
• Where: Glen Valley Regional Park
• Admission: Free, registration required.  Barcode 7457

The Secret Life of Trees Walking Tour

• What: A walking tour around Port Coquitlam’s beautiful downtown parks and gardens. Hosted by PoCo Heritage Trees and is part of the collaborative The Secret Life of Trees exhibit.
• When: Saturday, October 6, Saturday, October 20, Saturday, November 3 and Saturday, November 17, 2018
• Time: 2:30 to 4 pm
• Where: PoCo Heritage Museum and Archives – 150-2248 McAllister Ave., Port Coquitlam
• Admission: Free

Manning Park Dark Sky – Astronomy Weekend

• What: Manning Park’s first astronomy weekend features workshops, speakers and star-gazing. Bring your telescope and your astronomy questions for our star experts who will guide you on a tour of the night skies in the pristine alpine environment of Manning Park. Good for beginners and experts.
• When: Friday, October 12 to Sunday, October 14, 2018
  
• Time: Various times
• Where: Manning Park
• Register: Online

Focus on Forests

• What:  Explore fall forest colours, patterns and symmetries through a cell phone or camera lens using basic photography techniques.  Retrain your eyes to see new wonders while discovering why forests are important. Ages 14+.
  
• When: Sunday, October 14, 2018
  
• Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am.
• Where: Kanaka Creek Regional Park
• Admission: Free, registration required.  Barcode 7458

Return of the Salmon

• What:  Cheer on the salmon returning home to spawn in Kanaka Creek.  Engage with displays, games and fisheries experts from the Bell-Irving Hatchery and other community organizations. All ages. Presented with Kanaka Education & Environmental Partnership Society.
• When: Sunday, October 21, 2018
• Time: 11 am to 2 pm
• Where:  Kanaka Creek Regional Park – meet at fish fence on 240th Street, north of Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge
• Admission: Free

Hands-On Scientist: Be Aware – Bears!

• What:  Delve into the secret lives of park plants and animals as scientists share presentations and research techniques then guide a walk in the park. Explore the real world of bears and their behaviour with biologist Ellie Archer and search for signs of bear activity. Ages 8+.
  
• When: Thursday, October 25, 2018
  
• Time: 6 to 8 pm
• Where: Kanaka Creek Regional Park
• Admission: $8.50 per adult, $4.50 per child/youth/adult 65+. Registration required. Barcode 7472.

Demystifying Mushrooms

• What: Learn to identify common mushrooms without harvesting them.  Investigate fungi’s role as the underground interconnected ‘world wood web’. A 30-minute indoor slideshow is followed by a slow trail walk.  Edible mushrooms are not the focus of this walk.  Ages 15+.
• When: Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 9 to 11:30 am
• Where: Kanaka Creek Regional Park
• Admission: $8.50 per adult, $4.50 per youth/adult 65+. Registration required.  Barcode 7460

Goat Yoga at Maplewood Farms

• What: Maplewood Farms will be hosting 9 am weekend goat yoga classes taught by Kelli Sroka. Classes will take place on a grassy paddock. Guests should bring their own yoga mats and don’t wear designer gear as it’s going to get a bit muddy with the grass and goats. Selfies with the goats are encouraged so get ready to strike a pose. And if you need some new threads for those photos, goat yoga t-shirts are available to purchase online.
• When: Every weekend from until Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 9 to 10 am. Arrive for class at least 30 minutes early.
• Where: Maplewood Farms, 405 Seymour River Place North Vancouver
• Register: Online, $30 for participants over 18

Laugh the night away

The Dirty Betty One Year Anniversary Show

• What: The Dirty Betty Show celebrates their first-anniversary show with drag queens, stand-up comedians, improvisers and dancers, plus an audience twerk off.
• When: Friday, October 5, 2018
• Time: 8:30 pm
• Where: Fox Cabaret – 2321 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $12

Spooktober – Dare to Laugh

• What:  Spooktober is Vancouver TheatreSports’ limited-run seasonal celebration of all things eerie. There are four different shows you’ll be dying to see. Monster Matches pits teams of monsters against one another in a series of ‘head-to-headless’ short-form scenarios to see who ‘eeeks’ the most laughs. Cult Fiction – Everyone Laugh Together is framed as a spooky documentary. Scared Witless – Creepy Campfire Tales sees a group of hikers trapped by a storm in a spooky forest. WTF – What the Fright takes its format from their regular late night show, What the Fun!
• When: Tuesday, October 9 to Wednesday, October 31, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: The Improv Centre – 1502 Duranleau St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Wall to Wall Comedy

• What: Simon King and Sam Tonning present Wall to Wall Comedy at the Wallflower. Featuring Ivan Decker, Wes Barker, Fatima Dhowre, Harris Anderson and Oli Maugha
  
• When: Thursday, October 10, 2018
• Time: 9 pm
• Where: The Wallflower – 2420 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $10

Roy Wood Jr.

• What: Roy Wood Jr. began his comedy career in 1999 at the age of 19 while attending Florida A&M University. In October 2006, Wood made his network television debut on The Late Show with David Letterman. In 2015 Wood became part of “The Best F#@ing News Team as a correspondent on Comedy Central’s The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. In addition, he is the host of Comedy Central’s storytelling series, “This is Not Happening.” 
  
• When: Friday, October 12 to Saturday, October 13, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Yuk Yuk’s Vancouver – 2837 Cambie Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $30

F is for Funny

• What: Laughter Zone 101 presents a stand-up comedy showcase with Fatima Dhowre, Katie Nordgren, Ash Dhawan, Naomi Yamato, Syd Bosel, Ed Hill, Erin Jeffery and Jan Bannister.
• When: Saturday, October 13, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Anvil Centre – 777 Columbia Street, New Westminster
• Tickets: Online, $22 plus service charges

Words in Motion: The Fictionals X Vancouver Writers Fest

• What: Comedy and Literature collide at Granville Island Brewing when The Fictionals and Vancouver Writers Fest present Words In Motion. Improv X Literature features some of Vancouver’s funniest comedians and finest poets teaming up for a night of laughs! The performers will be inspired by your suggestions, classic literature, and modern bookshelf hits.
• When: Thursday, October 18, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Granville Island Brewing – 1441 Cartwright Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $7

My Favorite Murder

• What: My Favorite Murder is the hit true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Since its inception in early 2016, the show has broken download records and sparked an enthusiastic, interactive “Murderino” fan base. A top 5 regular on iTunes’ comedy podcast chart, My Favorite Murder has been featured in Entertainment Weekly, The Atlantic, Nylon and Rolling Stone magazine.
• When: Sunday, October 21, 2018
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 600 Block Hamilton Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Explore the city

Vancouver International Film Festival 2018

• What: Both in terms of admissions and number of films screened, VIFF is among the five largest film festivals in North America. The festival screen films from more than 70 countries on nine screens, with an international line-up including the pick of the world’s top film fests and many undiscovered gems.
• When: Now to Friday, October 12, 2018
• Time: Various
• Where: Various venues around Vancouver
• Ticket Packs and Passes: Online

Diwali Festival 2018

• What: A wide range of cultural events celebrating Diwali will be taking place at various locations in Vancouver and Surrey. This includes everything from a South Asian cooking class, a dinner and dance, and a massive performance at Vancouver Public Library.
• When: Various dates in October and November 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Various locations throughout Metro Vancouver
• Price: Prices vary from Free to $20

Métis Paddle Carving

• What: An opportunity to learn about Métis people and culture through a hands-on activity. Pat Calihou will be teaching and guiding participants towards making their own unique paddles.
• When: Tuesday, October 2, 2018
• Time: 3:30 to 6:30 pm
• Where: City Centre Library – Room 120 – 10350 University Dr., Surrey
• Register: Online, free

Healthy Kids Fair

• What: Come meet and chat with community health professionals about your child’s growth and development and receive information on vision, speech, dental, health and nutrition. Visit the displays, police car, fire engine, face painting and art station, Imagination playground blocks, healthy snack room and much more. Newborn to age 5 with parents.
• When: Thursday, October 4, 2018
• Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am
• Where: Edmonds Community Centre – 7433 Edmonds Street, Burnaby
• Admission: Free

Fan Expo Vancouver 2018

• What: A celebration of comics, sci-fi, and gaming. This year’s special guests include Jason Momoa (Aquaman), Ron Perlman (Hellboy), Brandon Routh and Caity Lotz (DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), and more.
• When: Friday, October 12 to Sunday, October 14, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Vancouver Convention Centre West Building, Hall A and B – 1055 Canada Place Vancouver
• Tickets: Online at Fan Expo Vancouver, from $30

The Music of War: 100th Anniversary Commemoration

• What: This fall marks the 100th year since the end of the WWI. In this concert, pianist Maria Jung and guests commemorate this meaningful anniversary through voice, clarinet and piano. With music and poetry touched by war, the musicians will showcase composers and poets who were involved in, or inspired by, the events of the War to End all Wars. Enjoy works by Britten, McCabe, Debussy, Vaughan-Williams, Ivor Gurney as well as a few memorable tunes that were popular during wartime.
• When: Saturday, October 13, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Place des Arts – 1120 Brunette Avenue, Coquitlam
• Tickets: Online, $16-$21

Vancouver Writers Fest 2018

• What: This year the Vancouver Writers Fest welcomes over 100 authors to events on Granville Island and across Vancouver. Through their works, these authors share unexpected stories, delve into current events and, ultimately, enrich our understanding of what it is to be alive today. The Festival features readings, workshops, Q&As and more.
• When: Monday, October 15 to Sunday, October 21, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Various locations
• Tickets: Online

UNIQLO & GO Mobile Pop-Up

• What: Not only is Metro Vancouver getting a new UNIQLO location this fall, the city is also getting a pop-up of the clothing brand. Fans of the Japanese clothing store will have another place to shop in Vancouver when UNIQLO opens an immersive pop-up shop downtown. According to UNIQLO, guests will be able to e-commerce themselves and ‘step into’ the newly launched app/mobile e-commerce site, preview the F/W18 collection and make on-site purchases via the Mobile Site. Giveaways will also be up for grabs.
• When: Wednesday, October 17 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: TBA
• Where: TBD
• Admission: Free

Latin Fiesta

• What: Bring the family to the Museum of Surrey for a vibrant fiesta of all the senses that includes crafts, dancing, food and more.
• When: Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 1 to 4 pm
• Where: Museum of Surrey – 17710 56a Ave, Surrey
• Tickets: Admission, Free

In goop Health 

• What: Described as a “mind-expanding” experience, attendees will be treated to talks, workshops, classes, beauty seminars, and gourmet food and drink. The event will be hosted by the brand’s chief content officer Elise Loehnen.
• When: Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 8 am to 5 pm
• Where: Stanley Park Pavilion, Vancouver
• Tickets: Available online, $400

In the BAG Family Sundays

• What: Come and make art. Get your minds humming with a visit to the gallery and then into the studio for family-friendly art projects. October’s theme is Chinese brush painting.
• When: Sunday, October 21, Sunday, November 18, Sunday, December 16, 2018
• Time: 1 to 4 pm
• Where: Burnaby Art Gallery – 6344 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
• Admission: Suggested $5 donation

Boobyball

• What: This giant party aims to raise funds for Rethink Breast Cancer’s programs, spread awareness about breast cancer prevention, and provide support for individuals under 40. This year’s Boobyball will be a Wild West theme. You can expect complimentary food and drinks all night, playing dress up to the theme, interactive experiences, and live performances all with a southern twist.
• When: Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 8 pm to 1 am
• Where: Imperial Vancouver — 319 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Available online, $75 to $115

Catch a Concert

Jessie J

• What: Jessie J—the multiplatinum-selling artist behind hits like “Price Tag,” “Domino” and “Bang Bang” comes to Vancouver with guests Ro James.
• When: Wednesday, October 3, 2018
• Time: Doors 7 pm
• Where: Vogue Theatre – 918 Granville Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $45-$49

Lil Dicky

• What: Multi-platinum selling artist Lil Dicky is on the road with his international fall headline tour,“Life Lessons with Lil Dicky”. Featuring special guests Mustard and Oliver Tree.
• When: Tuesday, October 16, 2018
• Time: Doors 6:30 pm, Show 7:30 pm
• Where: PNE Forum – 2901 E Hastings Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $50

Brothers Osborne

• What: John and TJ Osborne recently won CMA “Vocal Duo of the Year” for the second year in a row in addition to “Music Video of the Year” for their Top 10, three-time GRAMMY-nominated single “It Ain’t My Fault.” They also stand as the reigning ACM “Vocal Duo of the Year” and “New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year.”
• When: Thursday, October 18, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Abbotsford Centre – 33800 King Rd., Abbotsford
• Tickets: Online

Jeff Martin

• What: Jeff Martin, frontman for The Tea Party and Revelator, brings his West Coast tour to Imperial with special guests.
• When: Friday, October 19, 2018
• Time: Doors 7 pm
• Where: Imperial Vancouver – 319 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $25

East Van Opry 2018

• What: Now in its sixth year, East Van Opry features a talented and eclectic mix of Vancouver musicians performing their hearts out.
• When: Saturday, October 20, 2018
  
• Time: Doors 7 pm, Show 8 pm
• Where: Rio Theatre – 1660 East Broadway, Vancouver
  Tickets: Online, $24

BANNERS

• What: BANNERS’s music is at once haunting and hopeful. His song “Start A Riot” has generated over 50 million Spotify streams, while his recent single “Someone To You” has reached the number one position at Alt Nation.
• When: Friday, October 26, 2018
• Time: Doors 8 pm, Show 9 pm
• Where: Commodore Ballroom – 868 Granville St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Simple Minds

• What: Scottish rockers Simple Minds bring their Walk Between Worlds Tour to Vancouver at the Orpheum.
• When: Monday, October 29, 2018
• Time: Doors at 7 pm/Show at 8 pm
• Where: Orpheum – 601 Smithe St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Cheer on the home teams

Vancouver Canucks

• What: The Vancouver Canucks start their regular season in October, with home games including Calgary Flames on October 3, Boston Bruins on October 20, and Pittsburgh Penguins on October 27.
• When: Various dates
• Time: Various times
• Where: Rogers Arena – 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Vancouver Whitecaps FC

• What: Cheer on the Whitecaps at BC Place as they wrap up their regular MLS season against Sporting Kansas City on October 17 and Portland Timbers on October 28.
• When: Various dates
• Time: Various times
• Where: BC Place – 777 Pacific Blvd., Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Vancouver Giants

• What: Vancouver Giants bring Western Hockey League action to Langley Events Centre throughout the fall, including games against the Kamloops Blazers on October 12, Portland Winterhawks on October 20, and Seattle Thunderbirds on October 27.
• When: Various dates
• Time: Various times
• Where: Langley Events Centre – 7888 200 Street, Langley
• Tickets: Online

Get fresh at farmers’ markets

Downtown Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Thursday until Thursday, October 4, 2018
• Time: 3 to 7 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre – 650 Hamilton Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Kitsilano Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday until Sunday, October 21, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Parking lot of Kits Community Centre – 2690 Larch Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Trout Lake Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday until Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: Lakewood Drive and 13th Avenue, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

West End Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday until Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: West End Farmers Market – 1100 Comox Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Main Street Station Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Wednesday until Wednesday, October 3, 2018
• Time: 2 to 6 pm
• Where: Main Street Station – 1100 Station Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Mount Pleasant Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday until Sunday, October 7, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Dude Chilling Park – 2390 Brunswick Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Riley Park Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday until Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 2 pm
• Where: Riley Park – 50 East 30th Avenue, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

River District Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday until Saturday, October 14, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Kerr Street Plaza – 8683 Street, Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Ambleside Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Sunday until Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Ambleside Park – 1000 Argyle AveWest Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Lonsdale Quay Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday until Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: East Plaza of the Lonsdale Quay Market – 123 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver
• Admission: Free

Kwantlen Street Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Tuesday until Tuesday, October 2, 2018
• Time: 12 to 4 pm
• Where: Plaza in between the Richmond Public Library and the Minoru Place Seniors’ Centre – 7660 Minoru Gate, Richmond
• Admission: Free

Burnaby Artisan Farmers’ Market

• When: Every Saturday from now to October 27, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: North Parking Lot of Burnaby City Hall (4949 Canada Way at Deer Lake Pkwy)
• Admission: Free

Poirier Street Market

• What: Launched in 1996, the Poirier Street Farmers Market is the longest running suburban farmers market in the Lower Mainland.  The Poirier Street Market hosts a diversity of vendors and products from May through October. Each week a wide variety of vendors gather to showcase their products – made, baked, grown, or raised in BC.
• When: Every Sunday to Sunday, October 28, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 1 pm
• Where: Dogwood Pavilion Parking Lot – 624 Poirier Street, Coquitlam
• Admission: Free

Surrey Urban Farmers’ Market

• What: A vibrant, multi-cultural Farmers’ Market, promoting small-scale farmers, food producers and artisans. Meet farmers, bakers, distillers, artisan and crafters, food trucks, community groups, and more.
• When: Every Wednesday to October 3, 2018
  
• Time: 2 to 6 pm
• Where: North Surrey Rec Centre – 10275 City Parkway, Surrey
• Admission: Free

Haney Farmers’ Market

• What: A vibrant outdoor Saturday market in downtown Maple Ridge, Haney Farmers’ Market sells fresh farm produce, locally-grown fruit and veg, preserves, baked goods, artisan crafts, fine art, and more.
• When: Saturdays until November 10, 2018
• Time: 9 am to 2 pm
• Where: Memorial Peace Park – 224th Street, Maple Ridge

Port Coquitlam Farmers’ Market

• What: Inspired by, and created in collaboration with the Haney Farmers’ Market Society, the Port Coquitlam Farmers’ Market is part of a larger plan to strengthen Port Coquitlam’s downtown centre through arts, cultural and heritage programming.
• When: Thursdays until October 11, 2018
• Time: 3 to 7 pm
• Where: 2253 Leigh Square, Port Coquitlam

Langley Community Farmers’ Market

• What: Explore the dozens of local makers, bakers, and growers at two weekly locations of Langley Community Farmers’ Market.
• When: Wednesdays until October 10, 2018, and Saturdays until October 6th, 2018
• Time: 12 to 4:30 pm (Wednesdays), 10 am to 2 pm (Saturdays)
• Where: Kwantlen Langley Campus Courtyard – 20901 Langley Bypass, Langley (Wednesday), Timms Community Centre – 20339 Douglas Crescent, Langley (Saturdays)

Fort Langley Village Farmers’ Market

• What: You’ll find fresh groceries (fresh foods picked from local farmers fields in the Fraser and Okanagan Valleys), along with plants, flowers, and other artisan goods at this weekly market in Fort Langley.
• When: Saturdays until October 27, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: St. Andrews Historic Church – 9025 Glover Road in Fort Langley

Cannery Farmers’ Market

• What: The Cannery Farmers’ Market is Steveston’s indoor winter market, held at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. This unique market features local food and artisan merchants, inside a historic cannery setting. Admission to the museum is free on market days, with guided heritage tours by donation.
• When: Various dates from Sunday, October 21, 2018 to Sunday, April 28, 2019 
  
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site – 12138 Fourth Avenue, Richmond
• Admission: Free

Enjoy the theatre

am a

• What: Spearheaded by Mindy Parfitt and Amber Funk Barton, Amber and Mindy examine identity through the lens of Neuroplasticity. Using personal text, scientific writing, song and dance, they move beyond confessional narrative into personal experiment by performing in mediums new to them.
• When: Wednesday, October 3 to Saturday, October 6, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Shadbolt Centre for the Arts – 6450 Deer Lake Avenue, Burnaby
• Tickets: Online, $15-$36

Jerry Seinfeld

• What: Originally a stand-up comedian, Seinfeld was catapulted to stardom in the 90s with the success of his now legendary sitcom Seinfeld. Since the show ended its nine-year run in 98, Seinfeld returned to stand-up comedy and in 2009, began a successful web series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee.
• When: Thursday, October 4 and Friday, October 5
• Time: 7 pm (Thursday) and 7 and 9:30 pm
• Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton St., Vancouver
• Tickets: start at $79.00 (taxes included + facility & service charges) on Ticketmaster

The Piano Teacher

• What: An Arts Club Theatre Company production by Dorothy Dittrich. Erin, a concert pianist, hasn’t touched a piano since her husband died. As Elaine, a piano teacher, gently reacquaints Erin with her instrument, other life changes follow. A simple update to Erin’s home, for instance, brings the unexpected companionship of a contractor, Tom. Audience advisory: Mature themes and strong language
• When: Various dates from Wednesday, October 10 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
• Tickets: Online, $29-$49

Corteo – Cirque Du Soleil

• What: One of Cirque Du Soleil’s most-loved productions is coming to Vancouver this fall as part of its North American Tour. From October 10 to 14, 2018, Corteo will dazzle audiences at Pacific Coliseum. Corteo, which means cortege in Italian, is a festive parade imagined by a clown. The show brings together theatrical acting and stunning acrobatics into a world of fun, comedy, and spontaneity.
• When: Wednesday, October 10 to Sunday, October 14, 2018
• Times: Various times
• Where: Pacific Coliseum – 100 N Renfrew St, Vancouver
• Tickets: Available online. Tickets start at $49.

National Geographic Live!

• What: Hear from your favourite explorers, scientists, and photographers, as they highlight key issues and help preserve the world’s natural environment while illustrating their talks with beautifully built visual presentations. The first show kicks off on Wednesday, October 10 with ‘Spinosaurus: Lost Giant of the Cretaceous’ hosted by paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim.
• When: October 10, 2018, February 27, 2018, March 12, 2018, and May 7, 2019
• Time: Various times
• Where: The Orpheum – 601 Smithe Street
• Price: Starting at $45 – Tickets available via Ticketmaster

Stage 43 presents M*A*S*H

• What: Step back in time to 1909 as you explore Mackin House in an immersive way. Join the heritage performers as they give demonstrations, tell stories and share traditions throughout the different rooms in Mackin House. Enjoy the Celtic sounds of Black Sheep, then make crafts, watch baking demonstrations, and participate in interactive activities for all ages.
• When: Thursday, October 11 to Sunday, October 14, Wednesday, October 17 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: Various
• Where: Evergreen Cultural Centre – 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
• Tickets: Online

I Can’t Remember the Word for I Can’t Remember

• What: Tara Cheyenne’s new dance-theatre piece is all about memory – the things we remember and the things we forget. A show about women, maturity and what it means not to be a 25-year-old-stick-figure dancer, what it means to dance when you’re over 40, the beautiful difficulty of ageing. Part stand up comedy, part dance, all inspiring.
• When: Wednesday, October 17 to Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Shadbolt Centre for the Arts – 6450 Deer Lake Avenue Burnaby, BC
• Tickets: Online

A Conversation with Ellen DeGeneres

• What: Ellen DeGeneres, host of The Ellen DeGeneres Show and voice of Finding Nemo‘s Dory, is bringing her smiling, dancing, pranking, and fun-loving personality to Rogers Arena for a one-night-only show. The Q&A at Rogers Arena will take place on Friday, October 19, and is being presented by TD Bank and hosted by the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade.
• When: Friday, October 19, 2018
• Time: 7 pm
• Where: Rogers Arena — 800 Griffiths Way, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online

Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Only the Piano Player

• What: David Scheel’s show pokes fun at modern living and current events using his enormous range of comic voices and accents. Think Victor Borge with a dash of Robin Williams.
• When: Friday, October 26, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Centre Stage at Surrey City Hall – 13450 104 Ave, Surrey
• Tickets: Online, $25-$35

Arsenic and Old Lace

• What: A classic black-comedy and a Broadway hit starring Boris Karloff before it was adapted for film with Cary Grant. Jaqueline Becher, Michael Charrois and Steve Weller are two dotty sisters and their very scary and menacing nephew who comes to visit, complete with his crazy sidekick plastic surgeon.
• When: Friday, October 26 to Saturday, October 27, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Main Stage at Surrey Arts Centre – 13750 88 Avenue, Surrey
• Tickets: Online

Bon Appétit

Medina After Dark

• What: A six-course, element-themed meal that looks to raise funds for The Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention Centre of BC (Crisis Centre). The entire night is curated by Chris West and Kirk Bueckert, two members of the restaurant’s kitchen team. Their themed menu pairs three savoury and three sweet dishes, all revolved around the themes of earth, water, and flower.
• When: Thursday, October 4, 2018
• Time: 7 pm to late
• Where: Cafe Medina – 780 Richards Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: $75 per person plus tax and tip, wine pairings available for an additional $50.

Oktoberfest “Das Original” at the Vancouver Alpen Club

• What: If there’s one Oktoberfest event you don’t want to miss this year, it’s the Vancouver Alpen Club’s shindig. Head to 4875 Victoria Drive for one of the many dates this party is going down. There will be German food, beer, and live music all night long.
• When: October 5 and 6; October 12 and 13; October 19 and 20, 2018
• Time: 8 pm to 2 am
• Where: Vancouver Alpen Club (Ballroom) – 4875 Victoria Drive, Vancouver
• Price: $35; buy online

Port Moody Oktoberfest

• What: Port Moody Oktoberfest returns with even more food vendors, two large tents, adult balloon entertainment, lifesize Jenga, cornhole, ring-toss and BC’s finest Miss Oktoberfest competition. Try Original “München Oktoberfest” beers, Paulaner, and Hacker-Pschorr, Schnitzel, Bratwurst and Pretzels. Entertainment includes Onkel Hans and his magical Accordion, The Oktoberators, MC Billy Jones, DJ Jilly Bones and special guest Billy Jones.
• When: Friday, October 5 to Sunday, October 7, 2018
• Time: 5 to 10 pm
• Where: Inlet Theatre – 100 Newport Drive, Port Moody
• Tickets: Online

Cranberry Sale

• What: Stock up on fresh cranberries at the Richmond Nature Park Society’s annual cranberry sale. Proceeds support educational and public programs in the park. This event is for all ages, disability access is available.
• When: Saturday, October 6, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 3 pm
• Where: Richmond Nature Park – 11851 Westminster Hwy, Richmond
• Admission: Free, berries are market price.

Bowen Island Applefest

• What: Taste crunchy heritage apples, buy a homemade apple pie and learn all about seeds and how they travel. It all takes place at Davies Orchard, a 100 m walk from the ferry terminal. Presented by Bowen Heritage.
• When: Sunday, October 7, 2018
  
• Time: 11 am to 2 pm
• Where: Crippen Regional Park, Davies Orchard – Bowen Island
• Admission: Free

Chefs in the Hood

• What: This event, presented by Silverchef Canada and ONO Vancouver, will bring together the best of Vancouver’s culinary talent in a collaborative dinner event. Guests can expect an eight-course reception style dinner and cocktails, beer and wine for purchase, and live entertainment as well. There will also be a silent auction and 50-50 in support of Dan’s Legacy warehouse project, a platform that provides therapeutic counselling and life-skills intervention programs to youth battling mental health and addictions issues resulting from childhood trauma and abuse
• When: Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: 7 to 11 pm
• Where: The Law Courts Inn – 500-800 Smithe St 4 floor, Vancouver
• Price: $69-$100; buy online

Explore a night market

Richmond Night Market

• What: This market draws crowds from across the province, who travel to check out the rows on rows of vibrant cuisine along with the diverse line-up of nightly performances on the 50-foot entertainment stage.
• When: Now to Monday, October 8, 2018
• Time: Fridays and Saturdays from 7 pm to midnight; Sundays and holiday Mondays from 7 to 11 pm
• Where: 8351 River Road, Richmond (nearby Bridgeport Station)
• Price: $3.75 (regular admission)

Network at a business event

Surrey Small Business Information Expo 2018 – Build your Business

• What: The 2018 Surrey SBIE – Build your Business at Surrey City Hall brings together subject matter experts from 25 government support programs and non-profit service providers that are here to help your business. Along with a tradeshow the expo will host presentations on a number of interesting topics. Presentations will be held by subject matter experts from various industries.
• When: Tuesday, October 2, 2018
• Time: 9:30 am to 1 pm
• Where: Surrey City Hall – 13450 104 Avenue, Surrey
• Tickets: Online, Free

Cascadia Innovation Corridor Conference

• What: The Cascadia Innovation Corridor Conference brings together business, academic, and government leaders from both sides of the border to explore new strategies for the region to come together, maximize shared competitive advantages, and elevate global economic position.
• When: Tuesday, October 9 to Wednesday, October 10, 2018
• Time: Various times
• Where: Hyatt Regency Vancouver – 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver
• Register: Online, $400

Leadership Lessons from Women in Politics

• What: The leadership advice learned from politics is inspirational and transferable to any leadership position. Hear from the panel about their experiences in overcoming leadership challenges, gain advice for branding yourself as a leader within your organization and externally, learn how to respond professionally to harsh criticism and handle conflict, and continue being a trailblazer after facing devastating blows. Speakers include Christy Clark, Former Premier of British Columbia, Hon. Hedy Fry, MP, Nicole Read, Mayor, Maple Ridge, and moderator Pamela Martin, former CTV News at Six anchor.
• When: Thursday, October 11, 2018
• Time: 7 am
• Where: Four Seasons Hotel – 791 W Georgia St. Vancouver
• Register: Online, $49-$79

Tech Talent Day

• What: Talent Day is an opportunity to network and connect with tech companies in a casual setting. Meet recruiters and technical reps from Vancouver’s best companies face-to-face, learn about new opportunities, and build a strong connection.
• When: Monday, October 15, 2018
• Time: 5:30 to 7:30 pm
• Where: Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre – 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $10-$15

Future U: IT Skills for Tech Jobs

• What: In this conference, our speakers drill down into growth areas like AI and machine learning, blockchain web development, cybersecurity, and big data cloud computing. Plus network with employers and trainers who discuss skills needed in jobs now and in the future.
• When: Tuesday, October 16, 2018
• Time: 10 am to 4 pm
• Where: Vancouver Public Library Central Branch – 350 West Georgia, Vancouver
• Registration: Online, Free

Business Excellence Series: Smart Cities

• What: Smart cities use data to manage assets and resources. They collect information from citizens and devices that help monitor and direct such functions as traffic, power plants, water, waste management, schools, hospitals, libraries and community services. This discussion focuses on the competitive opportunities and challenges for businesses and individuals in the evolution of cities aiming toward a more dynamic, connected and optimally managed infrastructure.
• When: Thursday, October 18, 2018
• Time: 4 to 6:30 pm
• Where: Vancouver Club – 915 W Hastings, Vancouver
• Registration: Online, $59-$69

Leading An Innovative, Inclusive Organization

• What: This event will bring CEOs, Business Leaders and Small Business Owners together to talk about leading accessible, inclusive workplaces. Guests will have an opportunity to learn from each other about what’s working, lessons learned, and best practices – when it comes to the employment of people with disabilities. This event will also be a chance to look ahead at the province’s accessibility legislation.
• When: Friday, October 19, 2018
• Time: 8 am to 1 pm
• Where: Fairmont Pacific Rim – 1038 Canada Pl, Vancouver
• Register: Online

Party in the Clubs

Bass Coast Friendsgiving

• What: Bass Coast celebrates Friendsgiving with Sam Binga, The Librarian, El Papachango, OAKK, Young Dene and host Crystal Precious.
• When: Sunday, October 7, 2018
• Time: 9 pm
• Where: The Commodore Ballroom – 868 Granville Street, Vancouver
  Tickets: Online

Keiji Haino

• What: Active since the 1970s, Keiji Haino’s venerated career has navigated a wide array of styles and instrumentations including blues, rock, free improvisation, noise, percussion, psychedelic music, minimalism, and drone.
• When: Thursday, October 11, 2018
• Time: 8 pm
• Where: Fox Cabaret – 2321 Main Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $30

DJ Seinfeld

• What: The sweeping emotive cuts of DJ Seinfeld take over Celebrities Underground for an evening filled with verdant dancefloor workouts and discerning dips into jungle and breaks.
• When: Friday, October 12, 2018
• Time: Doors 10 pm
• Where: Celebrities – 1022 Davie Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $15 plus fees

The Dark Eighties Halloween Party

• What: Dance all night to DJs Nikki Nevver, Vanessa Turner and Mirror//Mask, plus enjoy live art projections. Costumes are highly encouraged.
• When: Friday, October 19, 2018
• Time: 9 pm to 2 am
• Where: Warehouse at Eastside Studios – 550 Malkin Avenue, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $10

Tove Styrke

• What: Swedish pop singer Tove Styrke released her third critically acclaimed album “Sway” in May 2018, and was widely acclaimed by Pitchfork, FADER, NME, Billboard, Rolling Stone Magazine, GQ and more.
• When: Saturday, October 20, 2018
• Time: Doors 7 pm
• Where: Biltmore Cabaret – 2755 Prince Edward St. Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $20

Giraffage and Ryan Hemsworth

• What: Giraffage and Ryan Hemsworth bring the “Open World Tour” to Fortune Sound Club with support from Nite Jewel (DJ Set).
• When: Wednesday, October 24, 2018
• Time: Doors 9 pm
• Where: Fortune Sound Club – 147 E Pender Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $20 plus fees

Claude VonStroke

• What: Claude VonStroke, San Francisco-based DJ/producer and head honcho of avant-house label Dirtybird, plays a special set at Celebrities Nightclub.
• When: Thursday, October 25, 2018
• Time: 10 pm
• Where: Celebrities – 1022 Davie Street, Vancouver
• Tickets: Online, $30 plus fees

See also

• The man behind Goosebumps is hosting a Halloween party in Vancouver
• K-Pop sensation Minzy announces solo concert in Vancouver
• Everything you need to know about Vancouver's massive new winter festival (VIDEO)